The number of homeless people is climbing in the UK, and the risk of becoming homeless is even greater if you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community. This is why Launchpad once again had a stand at Reading Pride earlier this month.
We were able to spread the word about Launchpad and our support services, whilst having fun with rainbow face paint and glitter tattoos!
King’s Meadow was bustling with crowds of people coming to show their support and celebrate the inclusivity and diversity of the LGBTQ+ community.
So many people visited our stand, many to find out more about what we do, but also to ask if we can help them, or someone they know.
There were also friends of friends asking for support and advice on homelessness and what to do when someone is ‘sofa surfing’ as they are concerned for their friend who they know is not welcome at their family home anymore.
According to the voluntary organisation Akt, which works with young LGBTQ+ people aged 16-25, there is a crisis in homelessness in this sector which doesn’t get the attention it deserves.
As many as 24% of young homeless people are LGBTQ+ (*research by Akt) and the majority of people supported by Akt face homelessness because of family rejection, abuse or being asked to leave home.
Research from national LGBTQ+ organisation Stonewall shows that almost one in five LGBT people have experienced homelessness at some point in their lives.
This is why it was so important for Launchpad to have a presence at Pride – we do not discriminate and want to help as many people as possible in the area who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
Kirsti Wilson, head of fundraising and marketing at Launchpad, said: “We had a lot of people coming to our stall taking our leaflets away. Many took our contact details away in case they need to get in touch with us. We were able to talk about our free drop-in service which operates every Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 10am and 2pm.
“We hope not to see them, but it’s peace of mind for them to know that we are here and can help should the worst happen.”
The Reading Pride, Love Unites festival is such a great event for the town and Launchpad were proud to be part of it in a small way and help spread the word about the charity.
We even raised almost £100 on the day thanks to everyone who had a glitter tattoo or made a donation. See you again next year!
